Chickpeas

I soaked 1 cup of chickpeas overnight and then simmered them until 'soft' before letting them dry on a tea towel. Next I heated some oil in a frypan and made a masala paste by frying a teaspoon of cumin, turmeric, chilli and 2 teaspoons of sesame seeds for 1 minute. Now I added the chickpeas and fried them altogether for a few minutes. Not quite right so I added a few pinches of salt to create a tasty snack.

The Return of Captain John Emmett

I read this book recently and really enjoyed it. I went as far as looking on the internet for reviews which tended to be less enthusiastic than the enjoyment I received. One thing that sticks in my mind is a comment that there are as many coincidences as a Victorian novel. Well it's probably true, but I enjoyed the ride to the end, where there is an affirmation of the importance and consolation of good relationships.

A Bit of Work Today

 Adelheid which I feel needs more work.

Adelia now in contemplation mode.

Adelina also in contemplation mode.

Adeen which is I think finished, but what would I know?

Thursday and stuff happened

 On Thursday I went and walked around our land. It has no livestock on it so the grass just grows and the silver wattles are aiming to take over the place. I keep the noxious weeds under control and am trying to control the bracken the old fashioned way by cutting it with a fern hook. From what my father told me this means cutting it at least 3 times a year. I'm finding that time is, as usual, is a finite resource in this process. In the picture you can see the brown of bracken that has been felled and more bracken to go. I do love the sense of place that comes from walking around and seeing, hearing a smelling the land, plants and animals being themselves.

The low light fog sat in the valley all day. In the hills to the south the sun did its winter's best brighten up the country.

In the Studio

 Addie which I'd thought was finished, but with a bit of obscuring and the warmth of Raw Umber I think this looks better.

 Adelheid which is now in contemplation mode.

Adelia also in contemplation mode.

Addi an experiment that I will take to other paintings.

Painting today

I did a bit more work on Adelheid today strengthening bit of the ground.

A new painting/sketch Addi, trying out some thoughts. 

Paintings

Over the last couple of days I've done some editing of Addie. It is interesting how I can say a painting is finished because at the time I can't think of where else to go, but there is a nagging doubt that brings me back eventually and changes then work their way through the painting.

With Adelheid I've reached a discernment stage where I need to contemplate and winnow to find my way.